Kew Gardens

I have been pestering Rob for us visit Kew Gardens for so long! Kew Gardens is right over near Richmond, West London. The truth is we just never really consider venturing West when we head into London. We normally stick to central or head to East London. Whilst East London is still my favourite place to visit and will always have my heart, I have been persuaded to visit West London a little more after our trip to Kew Gardens. 

We arrived at Kew Gardens shortly after 12.15pm after our long journey. After being greeted by the friendly ticket lady we headed straight for the cafe. We knew we needed to fuel ourselves before heading off around the grounds. We both had the chorizo quiche and cans of san pellegrino - tasty!

First stop was the Palm House. The grounds around it were stunning. Inside was equally as beautiful.

I particularly enjoyed climbing to the top of the glass house and looking down onto the plants. The plants were set out in the areas that they come from. There were some really interesting plants. Who knew what a mango tree looks like?! There was also a small aquarium at the bottom of the glass house. We saw piranhas and other interesting fishes.

After we headed out into the rain. It really started pouring down but we were determined to enjoy the grounds. We came across some interesting buildings. 

Then we headed to the Treetop walkway. After climbing all the stairs we reached the top. We could see over lots of the grounds and also one of the huge buildings that they are refurbishing. It won't be opened for another three years! I wonder what they are doing in there.

Rob is pretty scared of heights but he was so brave. It was bloody windy up there and it didn't feel the most stable at times.

Once we were back on the ground we headed to the Japanese style gardens and buildings. Due to the time of year there weren't many flowers in bloom but the buildings were impressive.

After a stop for tea and cake - Rob had chocolate and orange marble cake and I had lemon and poppy seed cake, we headed to some more glass houses. My absolute favourite was this one full of cacti and succulents. I love those plants. I could have lived in that place. 

Rob also enjoyed snapping some pictures of the flowers on his brilliant phone.

We also visited some galleries too. Although there were a few places and restaurants closed due to the season, there was so much to see. If the weather was nicer we would have spent longer roaming the grounds. There was a nice little stream and bridge that we didn't make it to. We will definitely be returning in the summer and spending hours just chilling out in the grounds. I can imagine the sunbathing, ice lollies and picnics already. Is it summer yet?!